Elon Musk’s government efficiency team is set to make an impact at the Defense Department with a target of slashing 8% from the upcoming year’s budget. This initiative, known as the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), is discreetly gearing up for significant changes within the department. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has already expressed concerns about the expanding workforce within the Pentagon, which currently accommodates 3 million troops and civilians and operates on a budget exceeding $800 billion.

Hegseth emphasized the need for a leaner and more focused approach, citing the historical success of World War II achieved with fewer top-level officers. Dov Zakheim, a former Pentagon comptroller, acknowledged the growth in personnel since the post-9/11 conflicts but emphasized the importance of strategic budget cuts to avoid hindering vital military advancements.

The upcoming changes are anticipated to involve reevaluating existing systems, with potential cuts to legacy platforms like the F-35 aircraft and armored vehicles. The shift is likely to prioritize next-generation technologies such as drones, hypersonic missiles, and cyber equipment to enhance military capabilities. Additionally, there is a planned emphasis on expanding shipbuilding to counter China’s naval advancements. The push for efficiency and modernization within the Defense Department signifies a strategic realignment to ensure resources are allocated towards enhancing lethality and readiness for future challenges.